Even after the founding of Joseon and the rise of Neo-Confucianism, Buddhism maintained a powerful presence. While its role in public affairs diminished, Buddhism served as a critical source of comfort in times of great sorrow or suffering, transcending ideology or social causes. From the royal family to the scholar officials and commoners, people of all classes continued to perform Buddhist rituals and create Buddhist art. Even as the strict tenets of Neo-Confucianism took hold, the devotion to crafting radiant gold Buddha statues never faltered. The timeless artworks in this section show the enduring Buddhist faith of early Joseon, which has stood the test of time like gold, which never tarnishes.